History of Solanki Rajput

Solanki Rajput:

Solanki is a dynasty of Hindu Rajputs which is found mainly in western and central parts of India, they trace their origin to Chalukya Dynasty hence belongs to Agnivanshi Kshatriyas of Bhardwaj Gotra. In year 350 AD, Pulakesin of Chalukya dynasty became the ruler of Vatapi or Badami in modern day’s Karnataka.

Solanki Rajputs have ruled the central and western Indian Territory comprising of present day Gujarat and Maharashtra states during 10th to 12th century AD. Solankis have taken the reign from the hands of Chavada dynasty in year 942 AD under the aegis of Mulraj I in this region. We can consider Mulraj I as the founding father of Solanki Kingdom in Saurashtra & Kutch.

Lord Somnath is the family deity of Solanki dynasty. The same Somnath temple which was later ransacked and looted by the Islamic invader Mahmud of Ghazni during the times of King Bhimraj I. 50000 Rajputs have lost their lives during the invasions of Mahumd of Gahzni hence weakening the Solanki power temporarily for some time. Khimaj Mata or Goddess Kshemkalyani is the Kuldevi of Solanki Rajputs.